CPCPIG3022A - INSTALL AND COMMISSION DOMESTIC IRRIGATION PUMPS


CONSTRUCTION, PLUMBING AND SERVICE

INTEGRATED FRAMEWORK

TRAINING PACKAGE

CPC08

CPCPIG3022A

INSTALL AND COMMISSION DOMESTIC IRRIGATION PUMPS

LEARNING GUIDE

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

National Plumbing Services Training Advisory Group

Plumbing Industry Commission Victoria

© Commonwealth of Australia 2015

Construction and Property Services Industry Skills Council

PO Box 151

Belconnen ACT 2616

Tel: 02 6253 0002

This work is copyright, but permission is given to trainers and teachers to make copies and contextualise the resources for use within their own training organisation or in a workplace where training is being conducted. This permission does not extend to making copies for use outside the immediate training environment for which they are made, or the making of copies for hire or resale to third parties.

This work was first published in 2004 with the assistance of funding provided by the Commonwealth Government through the Australian National Training Authority (ANTA). The2015 publication has been updated to reflect changes to the national units of competency.

The views expressed in this work do not necessarily represent the views of the Commonwealth of Australia or CPSISC. In addition, the Commonwealth of Australia and CPSISC do not give warranty or accept any legal liability in relation to the content of this work.

The website addresses and other contact information provided in this publication were compiled in good faith and were correct at the time of printing.

The updating of these resources was completed by:

National Plumbing and Services Training Advisory Group, with funding and support provided by the Construction and Property Services Industry Skills Council (CPSISC):

This guide was developed in consultation with representatives of the Plumbing Industry by NPSTAG and CPSISC to support the implementation of the CPC08 Construction, Plumbing and Services Training Package.

Contents

What is this resource about?

How do I use this resource?

Flexible Delivery

What do I have to do?

Unit Descriptor

Element

Performance Criteria

How will I be assessed?

Are there any pre-requisites?

What other resources will I need?

Safety

Introduction

Centrifugal pumps

Plan work activities

Example

Prior to installation

Properties of water

Pressure

Flow rate

Selecting appropriate materials

The application of mechanical, hydraulic and electrical principles

Determine installation requirements

Selecting the pump

Example

Ordering and checking the delivery

Install and testing the pump

Regulations

Quality assurance

Tools and equipment

Moving and handling materials

Setting out the pump base

Installing the pump

Connecting the suction

Connecting the discharge line

Assembling components to specification

Fixing techniques

Procedures for jointing

Copper compression joints

Silver brazed joints

Polyethylene compression joints

PVC-U solvent cement joints

Testing systems and procedures

Testing the system

Recording the test data

Sprinkler flow output

Sprinkler watering rate or precipitation rate

Completing the job

Clean up

Worksheet

Practical application

Assessment checklist

© Commonwealth of Australia 2015 1

CPCPIG3022A - INSTALL AND COMMISSION DOMESTIC IRRIGATION PUMPS

© Commonwealth of Australia 2015 1

CPCPIG3022A - INSTALL AND COMMISSION DOMESTIC IRRIGATION PUMPS

What is this resource about?

Welcome to CPCPIG3022A – Install and commission domestic irrigation pumps. This resource will help you gain the skills and knowledge necessary to demonstrate competence in this unit.

How do I use this resource?

This resource is divided into four main sections:

  • A learning unit, which contains background information on installing a domestic irrigation pump
  • Worksheets, which prepare you for the practical application
  • Practical application, which allows you to experience installing domestic irrigation pumps
  • Assessment materials, which help you demonstrate competency.

To complete this unit of competence you will need to:

  • read the information contained in the learning unit
  • complete the worksheets as instructed
  • have your answers checked by your trainer or supervisor
  • work with your trainer or supervisor to practise installing domestic irrigation pumps
  • read the assessment checklist together with the assessment sheets
  • complete the assessment.

Learning Resources are not intended to be the only source of information nor are they intended to be an exhaustive form of instruction.

Flexible Delivery

The Trainer or Supervisor may adapt and deliver this Learning Resource to suit people from diverse backgrounds to meet equity principles and conform to Legislative policies.

What do I have to do?

To demonstrate competence in this unit you will be required to show the level of skills and knowledge for each of the elements involved in CPCPIG3022A – Install and commission domestic irrigation pumps:

  • Prepare for work
  • Determine installation requirements
  • Install and test pump
  • Clean up.

If you are unsure of the meaning of these elements you should read the performance criteria on the following page.

To be competent in this unit you will need to demonstrate:

  • a knowledge of:

-the Standard International system of measurement

-properties of water including pressure and flow rates

-leveling and alignment processes

-fixing techniques

-the application of mechanical, hydraulic and electrical principles

  • the ability to:

-organise work

-communicate effectively, in written and verbal form

-apply WHS procedures

-use correct materials handling processes

-use hand and power tools

-use mathematical skills to calculate material quantities and flow rates

-use equipment test systems and procedures

CPCPIG3022A / Install and commission domestic irrigation pumps
Unit Descriptor / This unit of competency specifies the outcomes required to install and commission domestic irrigation pumps.
Element / Performance Criteria
Elements define the essential outcomes of a unit of competency. / Performance criteria describe the required performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the required skills and knowledge and/or the range statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the evidence guide.
1Prepare for work / 1.1Irrigation plans and specifications are obtained and site is inspected
1.2Work health and safety (WHS) and environmental requirements associated with installing and commissioning domestic irrigation pumps are adhered to throughout the work
1.3Quality assurance requirements are identified and adhered to according to workplace requirements
1.4Tasks are planned and sequenced in conjunction with others involved in or affected by the work and statutory and regulatory authorities’ requirements
1.5Tools and equipmentfor installing and commissioning domestic irrigation pumps, including personal protective equipment, are selected and checked for serviceability
1.6Work area is prepared to support efficient installation and commissioning of domestic irrigation pumps
2Identify installation requirements / 2.1Irrigation system requirements are identified from plans, specifications and relevant information
2.2Pump and installation materials are selected according to type, installation, range of flow rates, operating head and delivery distance
2.3Pump is identified, ordered and collected according to workplace procedures
2.4Pump is checked for compliance with standards, docket and order form, and for acceptable condition
3Install and commission pump / 3.1Pumpset out position is compliant with irrigation plans and manufacturer recommendations
3.2Pump base is installed according to plans and specifications and sustainability principles and concepts
3.3Pump is positioned and fixed onto base
3.4Suction and discharge lines are connected to pump according to manufacturer specifications
3.5Piping is pressure tested according to job specifications
3.6Operation of pump is tested and adjusted to achieve effective operation according to job and manufacturer specifications
3.7Test data is recorded and documented in format required by quality assurance procedures
4Clean up / 4.1Work area is cleared and materials disposed of, reused or recycled according to legislation, regulations, codes of practice and job specification
4.2Tools and equipment are cleaned, checked, maintained and stored according to manufacturer recommendations and workplace procedures
4.3Documentation is completed according to workplace requirements

Required knowledge

/ Required knowledge for this unit is:
  • characteristics and application of different pipes and fittings, including:
  • fixing and joining techniques and methods
  • flow rates
  • job safety analysis (JSA) and safe work method statements (SWMS)
  • levelling and alignment processes
  • mechanical, hydraulic and electrical principles
  • process of installing and commissioning domestic irrigation pumps
  • processes for accessing information and for calculating material requirements
  • properties of water, including pressure and flow rates
  • relevant statutory and authority requirements related to installing and commissioning domestic irrigation pumps
  • SI system of measurement
  • various types of domestic irrigation pumps
  • workplace and equipment safety requirements

An up to date version of the ‘Unit Descriptor’ may be located on the Australian Government web site training.gov.au

How will I be assessed?

Your trainer or supervisor will decide with you how you will be assessed. Your assessment activity may include completion of the student worksheet and practical task selected by your trainer or supervisor. Your assessment should allow you to demonstrate all the skills and knowledge required to install domestic irrigation pumps.

This unit may be assessed in conjunction with other units of competence. Your trainer or supervisor will tell you if you are to be assessed this way.

Are there any pre-requisites?

Prior to commencing CPCPIG3022A – Install and commission domestic irrigation pumps you must have successfully completed the following pre-requisite:

  • CPCPCM2043A - Carry out WHS requirements.

It is also recommended that prior to commencing CPCPIG3022A – Install and commission domestic irrigation pumps you should have successfully completed the following competencies:

  • Nil.

Project work may also group pre-requisite and or co-requisite competencies together to carry out such projects. It is recommended that the following competencies be grouped with this unit of competency:

  • Nil.

What other resources will I need?

To assist you the following resources have been suggested and should be available to you to do this competency:

Texts

  • AS/NZS3500 – Plumbing and drainage.
  • Plumbing code of Australia.
  • State or Territory regulations may override this learning guide.

Web sites

Video or audio cassettes

Safety

Workplace health and safety (WHS) requirements need to be observed in accordance with legislation. You need to know the WHS laws governing your job. Revision of CPCPCM2043A - Carry out WHS requirements, before commencing this unit is advisable

In any work situation you can reduce the risk of injury to yourself and others by using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). The types of PPE that you will need include:

  • overalls – used for the protection of the installer when working in different conditions
  • boots – it is recommended that soft soled footwear is worn while working on roofs, as deep grooved footwear pick up small stones and debris that might damage or scratch the roof sheets
  • safety glasses or goggles to protect the eyes from injury when cutting the sheets with a power saw
  • ear plugs or muffs to protect the installer’s hearing from excessive noise
  • dust masks or respirators to protect the user from breathing in dust or fine particles when cutting the sheets with a power saw
  • gloves, for the protection of the installer’s hands when working with different types of pipes, tools and equipment.

Introduction

In this unit you will look at installing domestic irrigation pumps. These could include:

  • horizontal and vertical shaft centrifugal pumps
  • primed or self primed pumps
  • jet pumps, bore hole or spear pumps.

Pumps come in two basic forms, reciprocating and centrifugal.

Centrifugal pumps

These supply a smooth, continuous flow of pressurised water that is ideal for irrigation sprinklers and drippers.

Due to their simple construction and design they are relatively trouble free, require minimal maintenance, will not be damaged if operated against a closed discharge valve for a short time, and can have self cleaning tendencies if required.

Plan work activities

Before you begin the installation of domestic irrigation pumps you need to obtain the plans and specifications from the job supervisor and conduct a site inspection. Gathering information about the job will help you to make informed decisions about the nature of the job and how to plan and sequence the entire process. Also, before beginning any work, you may need to obtain work notices and submit them to the relevant authorities.

The table below shows some information sources and the type of information each source can provide.

Source of information / The information provided
Authorities /
  • Pumping permit requirements for removal of water from natural waterways and bore holes.

Plans or specifications /
  • Location of connection point for irrigation system and any other services.

Company’s quality assurance /
  • Refer to quality assurance section.

Regulatory requirements /
  • Registration and licensing requirements for plumbing work.

Site inspection /
  • Verification of plans and access for work.
  • Locating and verifying existing services such as:
potable water
drainage or waste pipes
underground power and communications
other irrigation system
Others involved in the work /
  • Timelines for work completion stages.

You need to consider how the task you are about to do affects others. You should plan the task with the others involved or affected by the work. Your company may have procedures regarding this that you will need to take into account.

Example

A typical application for a centrifugal pump would be when a client wants to use water from a dam to supply a lawn sprinkler system.

The sprinkler system has the following requirements.

  • You have 5 model 12A pop up sprinklers covering an area of 14.8 metres by 3.7 metres as shown below.

Typical area coverage
  • These sprinklers require a pressure of 172 kPa to cover a radius of 3.7 metres with a total flow rate of 0.28 l/s (16.8 litres/minute).
  • The lawn area is flat and is located 10 metres above and 25 metres away from the dam as shown in diagram 1 below.

Typical system layout

Your client wants you to select a suitable pump to supply the pressure and flow requirements of the irrigation system.

From the diagram it can be seen that the pump will need to:

  • supply a total flow rate of 0.28 l/s to the sprinklers
  • provide a pressure of 172 kPa at the sprinklers
  • raise the water 10 metres (1 metre suction lift to pump plus 9 metre static lift to sprinkler)
  • overcome the frictional resistance to flow in 25 metres of 20 mm PVC-U pipe and fittings.

To select the pump we plot the required flow and pressure onto a suitable pump curve and select the pump best suited to this application.

This unit will demonstrate the techniques required to select, install and commission a pump for an irrigation system.

Prior to installation

Before you can set out, install and commission domestic irrigation pumps there are several things you will need to consider, such as:

  • properties of water including pressure and flow rates
  • levelling and alignment processes
  • assembling components to specification
  • fixing techniques
  • the application of mechanical, hydraulic and electrical principles
  • testing systems and procedures.

Properties of water

If you are using water from a source other than a reticulated main you will need to have the water analysed to determine its suitability for irrigation purposes. The water salinity (salt content) may be too high for the plants you intend to irrigate. Water from a reticulated supply will usually be suitable for irrigation purposes.

Whatever the water source you will need to determine the supply properties of the water before you connect an irrigation system. The water supply properties that effect irrigation are:

  • pressure
  • flow rate.

Pressure

The units of pressure are Pascals (abbreviated to Pa). However a Pascal is very small so the usual pressure units used to measure water pressure are the kiloPascal (kPa). One kiloPascal (kPa) is equal to 1000 Pascals (Pa).

Pump manufacturers use the terms ’head’ (h) or ‘metres head’ (mh) and use metres of water as the unit of measurement when talking about pumps. One metre head of water is equal to 9.81 kPa. Therefore 10 mh of water is equal to 98.1 kPa and 100 mh is equal to 981 kPa. So to convert mh to kPa multiply metres head by 9.81.

Example

A pump is used to move water from a river to a header tank that is 20 metres above the river water surface. The pump will need to produce a 20 mh (plus the friction losses) before it can pump the water into the tank.

HS50-05 Davey pump curve

The HS50-05 pump curve shown indicates the pump is operating at a total head of approx 27 metres head at a flow rate of 30 litres/minute (L/min).

When these units are converted to SI Metric Units (these are the units we use in Australia) this means the pump will produce a pressure of:

27 mh x 9.81 kPa per mh = 265 kPa

at a flow rate of

30 L/min ÷ 60 sec/min = 0.5 L/s.

Table 1 lists other pressure units.

Other pressure units / Conversion factor for kPa.
Pounds per square inch (psi) / X 6.89
Bars (b) / X 100
Metres head of water (mh) / X 9.81
Examples
Convert 20 psi to kPa / 20 psi x 6.89 = 138 kPa
Convert 1.38 Bars to kPa / 1.38 Bars x 100 = 138 kPa
Convert 14 mh to kPa / 14.1 mh x 9.81 = 138 kPa

Supply water pressure can be measured in two ways.

Static pressure / The pressure available when there is no water flowing. This pressure does not indicate there will be enough water flow for the irrigation system.
Dynamic pressure / The pressure available when the water is flowing at the required flow rate. This pressure will indicate if you have enough pressure and water flow combined to supply the irrigation system requirements.

Flow rate

The unit of volume flow rate is cubic metres per second (m3/s). One cubic metre per second (m3/s) is equal to 1000 litres per second (l/s).

Since this is a very large number of litres per second, the usual flow rate unit used is the litre per second (l/s). This unit has been derived from the cubic metre per second as shown below.